From our local politicians

Sault Business Matters has received a release from the office of Ross Romano relative to a COVID-19 announcement from the Sault’s member of provincial parliament in tandem with Sault member of parliament Terry Sheehan and Sault mayor Christian Provenzano.

Following is an edited excerpt from the media release.

For months we have been doing everything in our power to combat COVID-19.

Collectively, we have been working tirelessly and have made great sacrifices in the effort to flatten the curve so that we can overcome this pandemic.

Our three levels of government have come together to protect the health and safety of the citizens of the Sault Ste. Marie area, Ontario and Canada.

We have taken countless proactive measures in addition to the initial emergency declaration. This has included mandatory testing of all staff and residents in every long-term care (LTC) home across Ontario.

As a result of this proactive testing, we have learned that we have three positive test cases at Extendicare Maple View.

While some tests are still pending, we know that we have no confirmed cases at any other LTC home in Sault Ste. Marie.

“Throughout this unprecedented health crisis, the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers and our members of parliament have, and continue to, take swift action to support vulnerable individuals, seniors, front-line workers, families, and businesses in our communities,” relayed Sheehan.

“The infection prevention work of the Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) in protecting Canada’s healthcare workers and our vulnerable populations from COVID-19 infection is critical.

“Locally, we have been working successfully with all levels of government to make sure the people we represent come first. I want to thank all our local health care professionals and front-line workers from the bottom of my heart, I am grateful for your service,” Sheehan added.

Romano noted that, “I have contacted Dr. Merilee Fullerton, our minister of long term care, as well as our premier, Doug Ford and advised them of the three positive tests at Maple View.

“We are actively monitoring the situation,” added Romano. “The premier has noted the importance of more testing, to ensure we can stay ahead of COVID-19. Now more than ever, we need to take every measure to protect our most vulnerable citizens and our front-line workers.”

As for Provenzano, he made mention that “we all have a role to play in flattening the curve and slowing the spread of COVID-19.

“I have been impressed by the effort, care, and kindness shown across our community and I am confident in our collective ability to keep focused on the immediate goal.

“Let’s stay committed and continue to follow our public health professionals’ advice: self-isolate if you have any COVID-19 symptoms, stay home as much as you can, practice social distancing, wash your hands and avoid touching your face,” added Provenzano.